Christmas Cookies(Fruit Cake)
Festive and rich, these fruit Christmas cookies combine nuts, candied fruits, and aromatic spices for a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter and brown sugar together until well combined.
- Add eggs and mix well.
- Add flour, cinnamon, soda, and cooking sherry; mix thoroughly.
- Add chopped nuts, candied pineapple, and candied cherries; mix well.
- Add white raisins and mix thoroughly.
- The batter will be stiff.
- Drop spoonfuls of batter onto a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 275°F for about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Let cookies cool before serving or storing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using half butter and half applesauce. You can also substitute the cooking sherry with apple juice or grape juice for a non-alcoholic option. Make sure to chop the nuts and candied fruits evenly for consistent texture in your cookies. If the batter is too stiff, a splash of milk can help achieve the right consistency before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These festive cookies can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Grandma Grimes' Sugar Cookies for a holiday treat platter. For a touch of elegance, serve them on a decorative plate and garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers to enhance the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Cookies(Fruit Cake) contains roughly 3637 calories, with 45g protein, 431g carbohydrates, and 202g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (91% of the Daily Value), potassium (74% of the Daily Value), and iron (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 677mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Just ensure they are chopped into small pieces to maintain the cookie's texture. Mixing different types of nuts can also add a delightful variety to the flavor profile of your cookies.
Is it necessary to use candied fruit?
While candied fruit adds a traditional sweetness and festive color, you can replace them with dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a healthier option. This will change the flavor slightly but will still keep the cookie moist and flavorful, making it a great twist for your holiday baking.
What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps firm up the butter and reduces spreading. Additionally, ensure you are using the right measurements, particularly for flour, as too little can cause cookies to flatten out during baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).